JP6625622B2 - Antibacterial application system with recycling and trapping - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an antimicrobial application system, and more particularly to an antimicrobial application system having recycling properties for use in connection with food products and surfaces and other items related to food processing.

  Antimicrobial application systems, including spray cabinets, are well known in the art. U.S. Patent No. 6,742,720, issued June 1, 2004, entitled "Spray Application System", considers a number of such systems and discusses many of the advantages of such systems. As well as highlighting the shortcomings. The disclosure of U.S. Patent No. 6,742,720 is incorporated herein by reference. The spray application system disclosed in that patent offers many advantages over earlier systems, as discussed in detail in that patent. We provide an alternative embodiment that provides additional flexibility by further improving it based on such a system. For example, it may be desirable to recycle antimicrobial agents applied to a product. Adding equipment and processes that allow for recycling is not always preferred, as it adds cost and system complexity. However, the use of recycle reduces the consumption of antimicrobial agents and water and reduces the amount of emissions that need to be disposed. This may be desirable for a number of reasons, including environmental concerns, raw material costs, raw material storage limits, disposal costs, regulatory issues regarding wastewater and the disposal of certain antimicrobial agents. Thus, for many reasons, it may be desirable to recycle many of the antimicrobial agents used in the product being processed.

Recycling of liquids applied to certain products in the process line is well known in the art. However, recycling liquids in food processing and in items related to food processing offers a number of special challenges and concerns, especially with regard to degradation, contamination and cross-contamination. Such a problem usually raises a debate against recycling, resulting in the use of slow, cumbersome and undesirable additional processes and equipment, which increases cost and system complexity. One such complex system is described in Caracciolo, Jr. No. 6,348,227, issued to U.S.A. 2002, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
Prior art document information related to the invention of this application includes the following (including documents cited at the international stage after the international filing date and documents cited when transiting to another country).
(Prior art documents)
(Patent document)
(Patent Document 1) US Pat. No. 3,260,369
(Patent Document 2) US Patent No. 4,586,287
(Patent Document 3) US Pat. No. 5,133,860
(Patent Document 4) US Patent No. 7,651,614
(Patent Document 5) US Patent No. 8,012,002
(Patent Document 6) US Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0136862
(Patent Document 7) US Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0241269
(Patent Document 8) US Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0123028
(Patent Document 9) US Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0297609
(Patent Document 10) US Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0255896
(Patent Document 11) International Publication No. 2004/043162
(Patent Document 12) US Patent No. 9,185,929
(Patent Document 13) US Patent No. 9,352,983
(Patent Document 14) US Patent No. 9,345,262
(Patent Document 15) US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0262439
(Patent Document 16) US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0115322
(Patent Document 17) WO 2016/057295
(Patent Document 18) US Patent No. 0,176,896
(Patent Document 19) US Patent No. 3,260,369
(Patent Document 20) US Pat. No. 4,586,287
(Patent Document 21) US Pat. No. 4,965,911
(Patent Document 22) US Patent No. 4,996,070
(Patent Document 23) US Patent No. 5,133,860
(Patent Document 24) US Pat. No. 5,399,541
(Patent Document 25) US Pat. No. 5,421,883
(Patent Document 26) US Reissued Patent Invention No. 32,695
(Patent Document 27) US Pat. No. 5,968,338
(Patent Document 28) US Patent No. 5,980,375
(Patent Document 29) US Patent No. 6,126,810
(Patent Document 30) US Patent No. 7,651,614
(Patent Document 31) US Patent No. 8,012,002
(Patent Document 32) US Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0064585
(Patent Document 33) US Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0074292
(Patent Document 34) US Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0047087
(Patent Document 35) US Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0136862
(Patent Document 36) US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0195167
(Patent Document 37) US Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0241269
(Patent Document 38) US Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0107919
(Patent Document 39) US Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0123028
(Patent Document 40) US Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0297609
(Patent Document 41) US Patent Application Publication No. 2011/03009036
(Patent Document 42) U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0255896
(Patent Document 43) International Publication No. 2004/043162
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(Non-patent literature)
(Non-Patent Document 1) Examination Report for New Zealand Patent Application No. 730587 prepared by the New Zealand Intellectual Property Office dated Sepmber 25, 2017. (8 pages)
(Non-Patent Document 2) Examination Report for Panamanian Patent Application No. 91583-01 prepared by the General Directory of Industrial Property Registration (DIGERPI) dated Sepmber 11, 2017. (2 pages)
(Non-Patent Document 3) Technical Examination of the Subsidiary of the Application was by the Ministry of the Commerce and Industries of the Publication of the Publication. 91583-01 dated September 11,2017
(Non-Patent Document 4) International Preliminary Examination Report, issued in PCT / US2003 / 035933, dated 09/25/2005
(Non-Patent Document 5) International Search Report, issued in PCT / US2015 / 053398, dated 02/02/2016

  In one aspect, the capture unit used with the antimicrobial application unit has an upstream filter and a downstream filter. The upstream filter is configured to be coupled to an upstream capture line for transferring effluent from the antimicrobial application unit to the upstream filter. The downstream filter is configured to be connected to a downstream capture line for transferring the upstream effluent filtrate to the downstream filter. The upstream filter is further configured to filter solid components of the effluent, and the downstream filter is further configured to filter antimicrobial components of the effluent.

  In various embodiments, the upstream filter has a screen filter that includes a body having a first end, a second end, and an annular wall extending therebetween. The annular wall defines a cavity extending through the body for receiving effluent from an upstream capture line. The annular wall has a filter portion having a plurality of perforations extending therethrough, the filter portion filtering solid components of the effluent as effluent is received from the upstream capture line into the cavity. I do. The body is rotatable about a rotation axis extending through the cavity. The annular wall further has a band portion having a continuous surface along the inner surface and extending around the cavity. The band portion is configured to receive effluent from the upstream capture line on a continuous surface before the effluent passes through the filter portion. The screen filter further has a thread extending from the inner surface of the annular wall into the cavity, the thread having a first end of the body along the inner surface. Extending helically between the portion and the second end. The annular wall further has a delivery area configured to receive the effluent from the upstream capture line. The delivery region includes a continuous surface forming a strip along the inner surface and extending around the cavity. The thread portion extends along the filter portion and the continuous surface. The screen filter further has a cleaning device configured to remove filtered solid components from the annular wall. The cleaning device has a spray bar that includes one or more fluid ports arranged to direct fluid against the annular wall. The fluid port is disposed outside the cavity.

  In various embodiments, the downstream filter has at least two filter units, each having a container configured to hold a filter material including activated carbon. The filter units are arranged in series and configured to filter antimicrobial components from an upstream effluent filtrate. In one application, the antimicrobial component has a quaternary ammonia compound. At least one of the filter units includes a header having a body having an upstream inlet and a plurality of downstream fluid ports arranged along a plurality of arms. In one embodiment, the body has at least four arms arranged in an X-shape. In one embodiment, the body has at least two arms each defining at least 20 fluid ports. Fluid ports may be located on at least two sides of each arm. The fluid port may define a cross section between 0.125 inches and 0.250 inches. At least one of the containers may have a plastic inner surface.

  In another aspect, the antimicrobial carbon filtration system has a header. The header has a main body having an upstream inlet and a plurality of downstream fluid ports arranged along a plurality of arms. The header portion is disposed on an upstream portion of the filter container and is configured to supply a fluid containing an antimicrobial component onto the filter material.

  In one embodiment, the body has at least two arms each defining at least 20 fluid ports. The fluid ports are located on at least two sides of each arm. The fluid port further defines a cross section between 0.125 inches and 0.250 inches. In one embodiment, the header has at least four arms arranged in an X-shape. In a further embodiment, the body has four arms arranged in an X-shape and the fluid port defines a cross-section between 0.125 inches and 0.250 inches.

  In yet another aspect, an antimicrobial carbon filtration system has a filter unit container. The filter unit container has an outer wall and an inner wall made of plastic. The plastic inner wall defines a cavity configured to hold a filter material including activated carbon.

  In various embodiments, the outer wall has a metal drum. The filter unit container further has a removable liner, and the removable liner has an inner wall. The outer wall may be made of plastic, and the filter unit container may have a plastic drum.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The foregoing brief description, as well as the embodiments herein, are provided by reference to the following detailed description, which is presently preferred but is merely an exemplary embodiment according to embodiments herein, in connection with the accompanying drawings. Further objects, features and advantages of the invention will be more fully understood.
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an antimicrobial application system according to various embodiments described herein. FIG. 2 is a side view of a recycle unit according to various embodiments described herein. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an antimicrobial application system according to various embodiments described herein. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a capture unit according to various embodiments described herein. FIG. 5 is a semi-schematic diagram of a capture unit according to various embodiments described herein. FIG. 6 is a semi-schematic diagram of a capture unit according to various embodiments described herein. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a header portion according to various embodiments described herein. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a filter unit according to various embodiments described herein. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a filter unit container according to various embodiments described herein. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a filter unit container according to various embodiments described herein. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a filter unit container according to various embodiments described herein.

  Various embodiments are described and illustrated herein for an overall understanding of the structure, function, operation and application of the disclosed compositions and methods. It is understood that the various embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting and non-exhaustive. Accordingly, the present invention is not necessarily limited by the description of various non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments described herein. Features and characteristics illustrated or described in connection with various embodiments may be combined with features and characteristics of other embodiments. Such variations and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present specification. Accordingly, the claims may be amended to describe features expressly or essentially described herein, or explicitly or essentially supported by this specification. In addition, Applicant reserves the right to amend the claims to assertively disclaim any property or characteristic that exists in the prior art. Therefore, all such corrections are 35U. S. C. §§ 112 (a) and 132 (a). The various embodiments disclosed and described herein may have, include, consist of, or consist essentially of, the properties and features described in various forms herein. They consist of them.

  Further, the numerical ranges described herein are intended to include all sub-ranges of the same numerical accuracy as being encompassed within the stated ranges. For example, the range from 1.0 to 10.0 is between the stated minimum value of 1,0 and the stated maximum value of 10.0, i.e., the minimum value of 1.0 or more and the minimum value of 10.10. It is intended that all subranges between the highest values less than or equal to zero (eg, a range between 2.3 and 6.6) be included. Any high numerical limitation given herein is intended to include all lower numerical limitations contained therein, and every lower numerical limitation given herein contains every higher numerical limitation contained therein. It is intended to include the limitations. Accordingly, Applicant reserves the right to amend this specification (including the claims) to explicitly state any subrange that falls within the scope explicitly set forth herein. Reserve Since all such ranges are intended to be essentially as set forth herein, amendment to explicitly state such subranges is not possible under 35 U.S.C. S. C. §§ 112 (a) and 132 (a).

  All patents, publications, or other disclosure materials identified herein are, unless otherwise stated, incorporated by reference in their entirety, provided that the material incorporated therein is incorporated by reference. Is limited to the extent not inconsistent with the existing description, definition, description or other disclosure material expressly set forth herein. Accordingly, to the extent necessary, the explicit disclosure set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. All materials, or portions thereof, that are said to be incorporated by reference herein but are inconsistent with the existing definitions, descriptions or other disclosure materials set forth herein, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety with such incorporated materials. It is used only to the extent that there is no inconsistency with the disclosed materials. Applicants reserve the right to amend this specification to explicitly state the subject matter or portions thereof incorporated herein by reference.

  As used herein, the grammatical articles “one,” “indefinite” (“a” and “an”) and definite article (“the”) mean “at least one” unless stated otherwise. Or "one or more" is intended to be included. Thus, as used herein, an article is used to mean one or more (ie, "at least one") of the grammatical object of the article. For example, the term "component" means one or more components, and thus, more than one component may be considered and used in practicing the described embodiments. Further, the use of singular nouns includes the plural and the use of plural nouns includes the singular, as long as it does not conflict with the usage context. In addition, the grammatical conjunctions "and" and "or" are used herein according to accepted usage. For example, “x and y” means “x” and “y”. On the other hand, “x or y” means “x”, “y”, or both “x” and “y”, and “either x or y” means only one of them.

  As described herein, the antimicrobial application system may be configured to recycle antimicrobial agents used in connection with food processing. Recycling may include recycling the antimicrobial agent applied to an item related to food processing and then applying the recycled antimicrobial agent to an item related to food processing. The antimicrobial application system may include an antimicrobial application unit as well as a recycle unit. First, a diluted antimicrobial composition is prepared, and the concentration of the antimicrobial agent may be controlled automatically by a control unit. The control unit may include a processing unit, or may be operably controllable by the processing unit. To perform one or more operations of the antimicrobial application system, the processing unit may be configured to access a data storage medium that stores instructions executable by the processing unit. The antimicrobial composition may be provided to an antimicrobial application system and applied to products such as raw poultry carcass. The antimicrobial composition may flow into the recycle tank of the recycle unit after application to the product. The concentration of the antimicrobial agent in the antimicrobial composition flowing into the recycle tank may be monitored manually or by a system. Additional antimicrobial agents may be added automatically when the concentration of the antimicrobial agent in the antimicrobial composition falls below a desired level. All or part of the antimicrobial composition may be periodically diverted to the capture tank to selectively remove the antimicrobial composition from the composition. The removed antimicrobial agent and the remaining composition are then disposed of in a suitable manner. The antimicrobial agent is preferably a quaternary ammonia compound, an alkylpyridinium chloride or a cetylpyridinium chloride.

  In various embodiments, an antimicrobial application system may be configured to perform or achieve one or more of the following. Reduce raw material consumption without sacrificing safety. Used antibacterial agents are periodically separated and discarded in batch style. Automatically monitor and maintain the desired composition of the recycled antimicrobial composition. Improved recapture and return of the antimicrobial composition applied to the product. Automatically captures and adds liquid sent to the recycled antimicrobial composition from wet products. Continuously monitor and control the composition of the antimicrobial composition in real time. Reduction of waste leaving the system and associated waste disposal costs. Providing safe waste logistics that can be safely drained to wastewater systems. Increased flexibility and advantages of spray application systems and spray cabinets described in U.S. Patent No. 6,742,720 and PCT Application No. PCT / US03 / 35933. Effective application, capture and re-application of liquids that are prone to foaming. Increased flexibility in spray nozzle positioning and utilization. Dealing with large fluctuations in machining requirements. Relatively easy to install, clean and maintain. Provide an easy and reliable way to monitor and control the composition of recycled antimicrobial agents, even when the antimicrobial agents contain impurities.

  Referring to FIG. 1, reference numeral 10 generally indicates an antimicrobial application system in various embodiments. The antimicrobial application system 10 generally has an antimicrobial application unit 12 and a recycle unit 14 and may include a capture unit 15.

  The antibacterial application unit 12 can take various configurations. In a preferred embodiment, the antimicrobial application unit 12 takes one general form of the embodiment of the spray application system disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,742,720. With one exception, in the preferred embodiment, the liquid barrier described in US Pat. No. 6,742,720 is not used. Conveyor 16 passes through housing 18 for moving products 20 such as raw chicken through housing 18. As will be described in further detail below, a pan or pan 22 extends downstream of the housing 18 and is located below the conveyor 16 and the products 20 carried thereby. Examples of spray application systems used in connection with this embodiment are discussed in detail in U.S. Patent No. 6,742,720 and will not be discussed in detail herein. It is of course understood that the antimicrobial application unit 12 is not limited to such embodiments or spray application systems in general. Antimicrobial application unit 12 applies a composition, such as an antimicrobial composition, to a variety of different types and types of products 20 in a variety of different ways. Application methods used in such an application unit 12 include, but are not limited to, spraying, misting, fogging, dipping, pouring, dripping and combinations thereof. The system 10 may include a variety of different products 20, such as, but not limited to, meat, poultry, fish, freshwater and seafood, fruits, vegetables, other food items, animals, food packaging, food or food processing related products. It is understood that it is used for treatment of items and surfaces. It is also understood that the product 20 is a living body, carcass, raw, skinned product, carcass, shredded, prepared food, ready-made food, processed food, partially processed food, ready-to-eat food, or food ready for cooking. Have been. It is further understood that the system 10 can be used to process products 20 that are completely unrelated to food or food processing items.

  A rigid member 24 such as a stainless steel tube is fixed to the housing 18, preferably to the downstream end of the housing 18. As best shown in FIG. 3, the rigid member 24 has parallel arms 26 aligned on opposite sides of the conveyor 16. Each arm 26 is provided with a series of mating openings 28 for receiving counters or sensors. Although the system 10 is constantly under harsh cleaning conditions, the protective lens 30 provides a watertight seal, preferably a NEMA4 seal, to protect the counter from possible damage. Preferably, three counters are provided in series. As best shown in FIG. 1, the arms 26 are arranged such that the counters can be arranged to detect the presence or absence of the product 20. The use of three counters provides redundancy and increases accuracy. In this regard, the counters are operatively connected to a controller, such as central control unit 32 or 164, and the counts from the three counters are continuously compared. If one counter provides a reading or count that is different from the reading or count from the other two counters, the central control unit 32 or 164 will normally ignore the reading of the mismatched counter and leave the other two counters. Is programmed to depend on the reading of The logic and interpretation of the different readings may, of course, be adjusted in various ways.

  The recycle unit 14 dilutes the concentrated antimicrobial composition or solution to obtain a diluted antimicrobial composition or solution and provides the diluted antimicrobial solution to the antimicrobial application unit 12. An antimicrobial source, such as a supply tank 34, is connected to the housing 18 through an antimicrobial supply line or conduit 36. A chemical injection pump 38 is arranged in the antibacterial supply line 36. Pump 38 is operatively connected to controller 40 for the reasons described below. The antimicrobial agent preferably has a quaternary ammonia compound, more preferably has an alkylpyridinium chloride, and most preferably has cetylpyridinium chloride. Specifically, the concentrated antimicrobial solution preferably comprises a concentrated solution of a quaternary ammonia compound as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 09 / 494,374 filed on January 31, 2000 by Compadre et al. US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 494,374 (Compadre et al.) Is hereby incorporated by reference. The concentrate preferably contains an antibacterial agent and a dissolution promoter, and the dissolution promoter preferably contains propylene glycol. Preferably, the quaternary ammonia compound is present in the concentrate at about 40% by weight and the dissolution promoter is present in the concentrate at about 60% by weight. It is understood that a variety of different antimicrobial agents and dissolution enhancers can be used, and the concentrates and diluents can be, but are not limited to, the concentrates disclosed in US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 494,374 (Compadre et al.). And may have a variety of different components and compositions, including those of the diluent. Concerns about degradation, contamination and cross-contamination are eliminated or reduced because of the widespread effects of the preferred antimicrobial solution and the means of filtration and automatic concentration.

  One or more recycle tanks 42 are provided. A return line or conduit 44 extends between the housing 18 and the recycle tank 42 to transfer liquid from the housing 18 to the tank 42. A plurality of antimicrobial application units 12 may be connected to the recycle tank 42 using a plurality of return lines 44. A filter 46 is located on housing 18 or return line 44. Filter 46 is preferably a wire mesh filter (eg, a 100 mesh filter) sized to capture visible particulate matter in the effluent sent from antimicrobial application unit 12. Visible particulate matter in the effluent is usually very low, due to the upstream cleaning normally performed on the product 20. First and second filters 48 and 50 are associated with respective tanks 42 and are disposed between tank 42 and system pump 50 to provide a parallel flow between tank 42 and system pump 52. A valve 54 or other means is provided for selectively directing liquid passing from the tank 42 to the system pump 52 through the first filter 48 or the second filter 50. Thus, while cleaning, replacing, or repairing one of the filters 48 or 50, the system 10 can continue to operate. A three-way valve 56 is located in conduit 58 for reasons described below. A purge or capture line 60 leads from valve 56 to a capture tank 62. A capture pump 64 is located on the capture line 60. The recycle tank 42 may include an impeller or other stirring or vibrating means, but in a preferred embodiment such stirring or vibrating means is not used. A supply line 66 leads from the system pump 52 to the housing 18 and is connected to one or more atomizers 68. The recycle tank 42 may be connected to a plurality of antimicrobial application units 12 using a plurality of supply lines 66 or, if desired, by branching or splitting the supply lines 66. A bypass conduit 70 having a relief valve 72 is arranged in the supply line 66. A split line 74 is also arranged in the supply line 66. The diversion line 74 is connected to a dilution pump 78 and has a pressure regulator 80 disposed therein.

  A source 82 of drinking water, such as tap water, is connected to the recycle tank 42 through a water supply line or conduit 84. A branch line 86 is also arranged in the water supply line 84. The diversion line 86 is connected to a dilution pump 88 and has a pressure regulator 90 disposed therein. Pressure regulators 80 and 90 preferably adjust the pressure in lines 74 and 86 to a pressure lower than the pressure in lines 66 and 84, and preferably adjust the pressure in lines 74 and 86 to about 15 psig. . The dilution pumps 78 and 88 are electrically interconnected to provide a stroke-to-stroke matched pumping action. Further, dilution pumps 78 and 88 are sized to provide a desired constant degree of dilution. The dilution degree is preferably about 1 part or less to 1 part of water, more preferably about 1 part or less to 30 parts of water, and more preferably about 1 part or less to 60 parts of water. Is most preferred. Conduits 92 and 94 exit dilution pumps 78 and 88 but are arranged to direct liquid from dilution pumps 78 and 88 to static mixer 96. The static mixer is preferably an in-line auger-type static mixer.

  A sensor 98 is located at the discharge end of the static mixer 96. In a preferred embodiment, sensor 98 is an ultraviolet spectrophotometer or an ultraviolet spectrophotometer. It is of course understood that a variety of different types of sensors 98 can be used, including, but not limited to, infrared, visible, and ultraviolet sensors. Sensor 98 can detect the concentration of the antimicrobial in the solution exiting static mixer 96. The controller 40 operatively connects the sensor 98 to the liquid injection pump 38. The controller 40 can receive the signal from the sensor 98 and send a corresponding on / off signal to the drug infusion pump 38. A discharge line 100 leads from the sensor 98 to the capture or purge tank 62.

A siphon 102 is located in the capture tank 62 and is connected to a drain line 104. The drain line 104 communicates from the capture tank 62 to the antibacterial separation unit 106. The antimicrobial separation unit 106 preferably has one or more filters 108 or filter units, each filter or filter unit being a filter material (such as a disposable carbon filter) that selectively removes an antimicrobial agent from the composition. It is preferable to have a container sized to hold a large amount of. An intermediate filter line 109 connects each filter 108. A waste line 110 exits the antimicrobial separation unit 106 to discard water and other components remaining after selectively removing the antimicrobial agent. It is understood that antimicrobial separation unit 106 may or may not be used, and a variety of different separation methods may be used. It is also understood that filter 108 may be disposable or reusable.

  A central control unit 32 is used to control the entire system 10. Central control unit 32 may perform various tasks or functions in connection with the operation of system 10. For example, the central control unit 32 is operable with system processing to collect, process and / or communicate data indicative of operating status, system status, trigger events, component functions, events, etc., or other similar data. May be associated with One or more sensors (e.g., sensor 98) are operatively associated with central control unit 32 to detect and provide a signal indicative of, for example, a system operating condition or a condition related to the operation of system 10. You may. In one embodiment, the central control unit 32 activates, deactivates, or regulates pumps or valves of the system and communicates with one or more components of the system 10 to receive, transmit, and transmit data signals. And / or programmed to process or analyze data transmitted from one or more sensors operatively associated with various units of the system. For example, sensor 98 or another sensor may be configured to detect contaminants associated with the liquid recycled by system 10, or other aspects of the fluid composition. The central control unit may include one or more processing units or computer systems programmed with software, firmware, or other computer-executable instructions to perform various functions of the control module. Central control unit 32 may be associated with one or more data transmission devices that receive and / or store data received or processed by central control unit 32. In some embodiments, central control unit 32 may send signals to one or more indicators that reflect activities or functions of other aspects of system 10. For example, one such indicator may include a warning light, or may include a warning graphic display associated with a local or remote factory monitor.

  In operation, a diluted antimicrobial solution is prepared, which is used for one spray cycle, which typically lasts one day. The diluted antimicrobial solution is then discarded, disposed of, or removed from system 10 for further processing. It is of course understood that the spray cycle may be of various different durations. It is also understood that the system 10 may operate in a batch mode, a steady state mode, or a variety of different types or combinations of operating modes. A new spray cycle is typically started each morning with an empty clean recycle tank 42 and an empty clean capture tank 62. The diluted antimicrobial solution is prepared before the antimicrobial application unit 12 is activated and before the system pump 52 is turned on. In that regard, a desired amount of tap water is provided to the recycle tank 42. Preferably, the recycle tank 42 is filled with drinking water to about one third to about half of the capacity. A concentration pump 38 is activated to supply the concentrated antimicrobial composition to the housing 18 and is discharged through a return conduit 44 to a recycle tank 42 until a predetermined amount of the concentrated composition is provided. The concentrated composition is combined with the water in the recycle tank 42 to form a dilute solution of the desired concentration. A desirable range of the concentration of the antimicrobial agent in the dilute solution includes, but is not limited to, the concentration range of the antimicrobial agent in the dilute solution disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 494,374 (Compadre et al.).

  When the desired concentration is obtained in the recycle tank 42, the system pump 52 is activated and the dilute solution is supplied to the antimicrobial application unit 12. The diluted solution supplied to the antibacterial application unit 12 is not suitable for drinking. However, contamination or cross-contamination of the product 20 is not a problem because the diluted antimicrobial solution used is safe and has a wide range of effects. The recycle unit 14 supplies the diluted antimicrobial solution to the antimicrobial application unit (s) at various different flow rates and pressures. Flow rates and pressures may include, but are not limited to, those discussed in U.S. Patent No. 6,742,720. The bypass conduit 70 and the relief valve 72 direct a portion of the diluent composition to the lower portion of the housing 18 so that it does not pass through the atomizer 68 and is applied to the product 20. The ratio of the dilute composition passing through the bypass conduit 70 to that passing through the nebulizer is typically about 1: 1 or more, and more usually about 2: 1 or more. The dilute composition passing through the bypass conduit 70 improves mixing of the captured composition with the added concentrated composition. The use of the bypass conduit 70 and the relief valve 72 increases the flexibility in providing the diluted composition to the nebulizer 68 at or within the desired pressure range. Further, by using the bypass conduit 70 and the relief valve 72, when the additional spray application unit 12 is brought online or offline, the diluted composition is applied to the atomizer 68 regardless of the number of online spray application units 12. Supply can be easily continued at a constant pressure.

  When the recycling unit 14 starts supplying the diluted antibacterial solution to the antibacterial application unit 12, the product 20 to be treated (for example, raw chicken) is transported in the housing 18 by the conveyor 16 and the diluted antibacterial solution is sprayed or the like onto the product 20. Applied. The portion of the diluted antimicrobial solution that does not adhere to the product 20 is collected in the drain and returned through the return line 44 and the filter 46 to the recycle tank 42 for reuse. The length of the saucer 22 is selected such that dripping from the product 20 leaving the housing 18 is received for about one minute after the product 20 exits the housing 18. As a result, recovery of the diluted antimicrobial solution is improved, and downstream losses are reduced. Although not preferred, a liquid barrier, such as a water spray curtain, may be used within housing 18. Also, because the product 20 may be moist due to upstream cleaning, additional water may enter the recycle tank 42 and reduce the concentration of the antimicrobial agent in the dilute solution.

It is desirable to avoid concentrated spikes of the diluted composition. This is especially true for dilute compositions that leave the nebulizer 68 and pass through the shunt line 74 for the sensor 98. Therefore, measures are taken to ensure that the dilute composition recycled between the recycling unit 14 and the antimicrobial application unit 12 is sufficiently mixed. This is one reason why the concentrated supply line 36 directs the concentrated antimicrobial solution to the housing 18 rather than directly to the recycle tank 42. By the time the concentrated composition mixes with the diluted composition from the atomizer 68 and the bypass line 70 and passes through the return line 44, the filter 46 , the recycle tank 42, the filter 48 or 50, and the system pump 52, the result is obtained. The liquids are well mixed and have a relatively uniform composition.

  Preferred sensors 98, such as spectrophotometers, are commonly used to measure very low concentrations of components in the composition. Accordingly, it is also important to provide a liquid having a relatively uniform composition, as well as a liquid having a very low concentration of the antimicrobial agent or component being measured. It is often impractical or impossible to obtain accurate and reliable readings of the antimicrobial agent in the concentration range normally found in the recycle tank 42. Dilution of the composition before obtaining a concentration reading would increase flexibility in selecting a sensor 98 for monitoring the concentration of the antimicrobial agent. Accordingly, a sample of the composition exiting the recycle tank 42 is obtained and further diluted to obtain a more diluted composition in which the antimicrobial agent is within a concentration range that is easily and accurately measured by the sensor 98. . The dilution of the dilution pumps 78 and 88 is selected to provide the desired dilution (eg, within the ranges described above). A timer is set in the pumps 78 and 88 so that samples are obtained at predetermined intervals for a predetermined duration. It is understood that the concentration may be monitored for a variety of different durations at a variety of different intervals, or may be monitored continuously. Electrically interconnected pumps 78 and 88 provide the dilute composition and water in a desired constant ratio to further dilute the dilute composition. The use of electrically interconnected pumps at the desired constant dilution simplifies the control required to operate system 10. It is of course understood that the pumps need not be interconnected, that the dilution need not be constant, and that a variety of different methods can be used to select, control and adjust the desired dilution.

  As the diluted composition and water are combined and pass through the static mixer 96, the risk of liquid spikes occurring as the liquid passes through the spectrophotometer 98 is further reduced. Spectrophotometer 98 senses the concentration of the antimicrobial agent in the passing liquid. Sensor 98 is operatively connected to controller 40. Accordingly, when the sensor 98 detects that the concentration of the antimicrobial agent has dropped below a desired level, the controller 40 activates the drug infusion pump 38, adds more concentrated antimicrobial solution to the housing 18, and removes the concentrated antimicrobial solution from the diluted antimicrobial solution. To the desired level. The system 10 may be configured such that drinking water can be controlled in the same manner, but the need for additional make-up water is unlikely to occur.

  Since it is not desirable to direct the highly diluted liquid passing through the sensor 98 to the recycle tank 42, the liquid is directed to the capture tank 62. By siphon 102 in capture tank 62, liquid is collected in capture tank 42 until the desired level is reached. When the liquid in the capture tank 42 reaches the desired level, the siphon 102 empties the capture tank 62 and passes the liquid through the conduit 104 to the disposable carbon filter 108 of the antimicrobial separation unit 106. The disposable filter 108 captures the antimicrobial agent and selectively removes the antimicrobial agent from the solution. The use of siphon 102 reduces or eliminates channeling problems that can occur if liquid continuously drip from capture tank 62 onto carbon filter 108.

  At the end of the spray cycle, for example, at the end of a shift, at the end of a day, or at the end of another selected duration, the valve 56 is actuated to divert the diluted antimicrobial solution received from the recycle tank 42 to the capture pump 64. I do. Capture pump 64 empties recycle tank 42 and allows the diluted antimicrobial solution to pass to capture tank 62. When the liquid reaches the desired level in the capture tank 62, the siphon 102 passes the liquid through the conduit 104 to the disposable carbon filter 108 of the antimicrobial separation unit 106. The disposable filter 108 captures the antimicrobial agent and selectively removes the antimicrobial agent from the solution. After the antibacterial-impregnated disposable filter 108 is depleted, it is disposed of in any suitable manner, such as by incineration or disposal in an approved landfill. The remaining liquid, which is relatively free of antimicrobial agents, is disposed of in a suitable manner, such as by disposal in a factory wastewater system. The frequency with which the system 10 needs to be purged depends on a number of factors, such as the number of products 20 to be processed by the antimicrobial application unit 12, the amount of diluted antimicrobial solution needed to fill the system 10 at the beginning of a spray cycle, and the like. Depends on. System 10 is typically purged periodically.

  An alternative embodiment of the antimicrobial application system 10 is disclosed in FIG. The antimicrobial application system 10 of an alternative embodiment also generally has an antimicrobial application unit 112 and a recycle unit 114, and may typically include a capture unit 115.

  The antibacterial application unit 112 can take various configurations. For example, the antimicrobial application unit 112 takes one general form of the embodiment of the spray application system disclosed in US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 001,896. In a preferred embodiment, no spray containment barrier is used. Conveyor 116 passes through housing 118 to move product 120, such as raw chicken, through housing 118. As described in further detail below, a saucer or pan 122 extends downstream of the housing 118 and is located below the conveyor 116 and the product 120 carried thereby. Spray application systems are discussed in detail in U.S. Patent No. 6,742,720 and will not be discussed in detail herein. It is of course understood that the antimicrobial application unit 112 is not limited to such embodiments or spray application systems in general. Antimicrobial application unit 112 may apply the antimicrobial agent to a variety of different types of products 120 in a variety of different conventional ways. Application methods used for such an application unit 112 include, but are not limited to, spraying, misting, fogging, dipping, pouring, dripping and combinations thereof. System 10 may be used to treat a variety of different products 120, such as, but not limited to, meat, poultry, fish, fruits, vegetables, other food items, animals, food packaging, food or food processing related items and surfaces, etc. It is understood that Product 120 is also understood to be a living, cadaver, raw, cooked food, ready-to-eat food, processed food, partially processed food, or instant food. It is further understood that the system 10 can be used to process products 120 that are completely unrelated to food or food processing items.

  The recycle unit 114 dilutes the concentrated antimicrobial composition to obtain a diluted antimicrobial composition and provides the diluted antimicrobial composition to the antimicrobial application unit 112. A recycle tank 124 is provided. Recycle tank 124 may include an impeller or other agitation or vibration means. A source 126 of drinking water, such as tap water, is connected to a recycle tank 124 through a water supply line 128. Similarly, an antimicrobial source, such as a supply tank 130, is connected to a recycle tank 124 through an antimicrobial supply line 132. The antimicrobial agent preferably has a quaternary ammonia compound, more preferably has an alkylpyridinium chloride, and most preferably has cetylpyridinium chloride. Specifically, the concentrated antimicrobial composition preferably comprises a concentrated composition of a quaternary ammonia compound as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 09 / 494,374, filed January 31, 2000 by Compadre et al. US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 494,374 (Compadre et al.) Is hereby incorporated by reference. The concentrated composition preferably contains an antimicrobial agent and a dissolution promoter, and the dissolution promoter preferably contains propylene glycol. The quaternary ammonia compound is preferably present in the concentrated composition at about 40% by weight, and the dissolution enhancer is preferably present in the concentrate at about 60% by weight. It is of course understood that a variety of different antimicrobial agents and dissolution enhancers can be used, and such concentrated and dilute compositions are disclosed in, but not limited to, US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 494,374 (Compadre et al.). It can have a variety of different components and compositions, including those of the concentrated and diluted compositions. Worries of quality degradation, contamination and cross-contamination are eliminated or reduced due to the widespread effects of the preferred antimicrobial composition.

  A drug solution injection pump 134 is arranged on the antibacterial supply line 132. A sensor 136 is connected to the recycle tank 124 through lines 138 and 140. In a preferred embodiment, the sensor is an ultraviolet spectrophotometer or an ultraviolet spectrophotometer. It is of course understood that a variety of different sensors and a variety of different light sensors can be used. For example, a light sensor may use light having a variety of different ranges of wavelengths, including but not limited to ultraviolet light, visible light, infrared light, and combinations thereof. It is of course understood that various different types of sensors 136 can be used, including, but not limited to, infrared, visible, and ultraviolet sensors. The sensor 136 can detect the concentration of the antimicrobial agent in the composition of the recycle tank 124. A controller 142 operatively connects the sensor 136 to the drug solution infusion pump 134. The controller 142 receives the signal from the sensor 136 and can send a corresponding on / off signal to the drug infusion pump 134. A supply line 144 exits the recycle tank 124, passes through the system pump 146, and then through the valve 148, and is connected to the antimicrobial application unit 112. The recycle tank 124 may be connected to a plurality of antimicrobial application units using a plurality of supply lines or, if desired, by branching or splitting the supply line 144. Valve 148 is preferably a three-way valve. Return line 150 exits antimicrobial application unit 112, passes through filter 152, and is connected to recycle tank 124. Multiple antimicrobial application units may be connected to the recycle tank 124 using multiple return lines. The filter 152 is preferably a wire mesh filter sized to capture visible particulates in the effluent sent from the antimicrobial application unit 112. Visible particulates in the effluent are usually very low due to the upstream cleaning that is typically performed on product 120. A capture line 154 leads from the valve 148 to the capture tank 156. A drain line 158 leads from the capture tank 156 to the antimicrobial separation unit 160. Antimicrobial separation unit 160 preferably includes one or more disposable filters selected for the purpose of separating antimicrobial agents from water. The waste line 162 leaves the antimicrobial separation unit 160 to dispose of the water after removing the antimicrobial agent. A central control unit 164 is used to control the entire system 10, but may be similar to the central control unit 32.

  In operation, a diluted antimicrobial solution is prepared, which is typically used for one spray cycle lasting one day. The diluted antimicrobial solution is then discarded, disposed of, or removed from system 10 for further processing. Thus, each spray cycle, which typically begins each morning, begins with emptying and cleaning the recycle tank 124 and emptying and cleaning the capture tank 156. A diluted antimicrobial solution is prepared before the antimicrobial application unit 112 is activated and before the system pump 146 is turned on. In that regard, a desired amount of tap water is provided to the recycle tank 124. Preferably, the recycle tank 124 is filled with about one third to about half of the volume with drinking water. Central control unit 164 activates sensor 136 so that liquid from recycle tank 124 passes through sensor 136. Since the sensor 136 first detects the absence of the antimicrobial agent (no absorption at 260 nm), the controller 142 activates the chemical infusion pump 134 and begins to supply the concentrated antimicrobial composition to the recycle tank 124 while measuring. When the concentration of the antimicrobial agent in the dilute composition in the recycle tank 124 reaches a desired level, the sensor 136, and thus the controller 142, turns off the drug infusion pump 134. Desirable ranges for the concentration of the antimicrobial agent in the dilute composition include, but are not limited to, the concentration ranges of the antimicrobial agent in the dilute composition disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 494,374 (Compadre et al.). Once the desired concentration is obtained in the recycle tank 124, the system pump 146 is activated and the dilute composition is supplied to the antimicrobial application unit 112. The diluted composition supplied to the antibacterial application unit 112 is not suitable for drinking. However, contamination or cross-contamination of the product 120 is not a problem because the diluted antimicrobial composition used is safe and has a wide range of effects. The recycle unit 114 supplies the diluted antimicrobial composition to the antimicrobial application unit 112 at various different flow rates and pressures. Flow rates and pressures may include, but are not limited to, those discussed in U.S. Patent No. 6,742,720.

  When the recycle unit 114 begins to supply the diluted antimicrobial composition to the antimicrobial application unit 112, the product 120 to be treated (eg, raw chicken) is transported in the housing 118 by the conveyor 116 and the diluted antimicrobial composition is sprayed or the like onto the product. 120 applies. The portion of the diluted antimicrobial composition that does not adhere to the product 120 is collected in a drain and returned through a return line 150 and a filter 152 to a recycle tank for reuse. The length of the saucer 122 is selected such that dripping from the product 120 leaving the housing 118 is received for about one minute after the product 120 exits the housing 118. As a result, recovery of the diluted antimicrobial composition is improved, and downstream losses are reduced. A water spray curtain may be used in the application chamber. Also, since the product 120 may be wet due to upstream cleaning, additional water typically enters the recycle tank 124.

  Sensor 136 continuously monitors the concentration of the antimicrobial agent in the recycle tank composition. When the concentration drops below the desired level, sensor 136 activates drug infusion pump 134, adding more concentrated antimicrobial composition and returning the concentration of antimicrobial agent in the diluted antimicrobial composition to the desired level. The system 10 may be configured so that tap water can be controlled in the same manner, but the need for additional make-up water is unlikely to occur. Thus, the diluted antimicrobial composition is used repeatedly to treat any number of units of product 120 to be treated.

  At the end of the spray cycle, for example, at the end of a shift, at the end of a day, or at the end of another selected duration, the valve 148 is actuated to pump the diluted antimicrobial composition received from the system pump 146 through the capture line 154. The flow is divided into the purge tank 156. The liquid in the purge tank 156 is gravity supplied to the disposable filter of the antibacterial separation unit 160. The disposable filter captures the antimicrobial agent and separates the antimicrobial agent from the composition. The filter impregnated with the antimicrobial agent is then disposed of in any suitable manner, such as by incineration or disposal in an approved landfill. The remaining liquid, which is relatively free of antimicrobial agents, is disposed of in a suitable manner, such as by disposal in a factory wastewater system. The frequency with which the system 10 needs to be purged depends on a number of factors, such as the number of products 120 to be processed by the antimicrobial application unit 112, the amount of diluted antimicrobial composition required to fill the system 10 at the beginning of a spray cycle. And so on. System 10 will be purged periodically.

  FIG. 4 schematically illustrates another embodiment of a capture unit 215 that includes an upstream filter 225 and a downstream filter 227. Capture unit 215 may be configured for use with the embodiments of FIGS. 1-3 as described above, or configured to capture all or a portion of the antimicrobial component of the diluted antimicrobial solution. Good. For example, the diluted antimicrobial solution may be purged from system 10 at the end of a spray cycle, such as at the end of a shift, at the end of a day, or at the end of another selected duration. Purging may include initiating a capture sequence or transitioning to a capture mode that directs the diluted antimicrobial solution to capture unit 215 by adjusting pumping and valve operation. Central control units 32, 164 may be programmed to sequentially or simultaneously activate or deactivate one or more system valves, and operate valves or valve devices in response to a purge signal. May be programmed as follows. The purge signal may be sent by the user or may be sent, for example, in connection with a programmed trigger condition. Such trigger conditions may include the condition of the diluted antimicrobial solution, the operating condition of one or more units in the system, the occurrence of a predetermined event (eg, the number of products processed or a fixed duration), and / or other It may be associated with various possible trigger conditions or events. The central control units 32, 164, in addition to purging or swapping the system, may also send dilute antimicrobial solution to the capture unit 215 to coordinate processing and disposal as part of other system operations, including: For example, trigger events to discard diluted samples used to perform concentration measurements, trigger events to adjust the amount of dilute antimicrobial solution circulating throughout the system 10 from the recycle units 14, 114, low levels of contamination It also includes a programmed response to a trigger event that partially swaps the system fluids to perform, or other desired trigger events.

  In one configuration, during purging of the system 10, the central control unit 32, 164 sends the diluted antimicrobial solution to one or more capture lines 221 (capture lines 60, 100, and even the exhaust line 100) to discard the effluent 223. Etc.) by opening and closing one or more system valves (valves 56, 52, 80 or 90) and turning on / off one or more system pumps (capture pump 64 or supply pump 52). Is also good. For example, the diluted antimicrobial solution is released or recovered from the recycle tanks 42, 124, the application unit 12, the static mixer 96, and the like, and is passed through the capture lines 60, 100, 221 to remove the capture unit (the effluent 223 to be treated and disposed of). (Which may be coupled to a capture line 221 for receiving) 215. The capture unit 215 is configured to treat the effluent 223, thereby capturing or separating components of the effluent 223, making it suitable for safely and cost-effectively treating it as wastewater. May be. The components of the effluent 223 may include, but are not limited to, various concentrations of antimicrobial components, diluent components such as water, and contaminants, visible particulates, including organic or inorganic particles or by-products, Fragments and the like may be included (all of them are collectively referred to as solid components in this specification).

  Capture unit 215 may include various upstream and downstream filters 225, 227 configured to selectively interact with or be associated with one or more components of effluent 223. . In various embodiments, filters 225, 227 may be configured to utilize one or more properties of effluent 223 or components thereof to achieve a desired level of separation. For example, the filters 225, 227 may be of size, charge, viscosity, consistency, molecular structure, molecular interaction, residue, action, binding, diffusion, or any other property or characteristic suitable for filtering such components. Based on this, it may be configured to filter the components of the effluent 223. Filters 225, 227 may comprise various filter layers, meshes, screens, selectively permeable membranes, packed columns, fluidized beds, one or more stationary layers or mobile phases, suitable for separating one or more components, It may include an adsorption medium or the like. For example, in at least one embodiment, the upstream filter 225 includes a solids separation unit 229 that uses a screen filter 225a configured to separate solids components 231 from the effluent.

In various embodiments, the upstream filtrate 235 discharged by the upstream filter 225 may be sent to the capture tank 216 through a downstream capture line 237a. The upstream filtrate 235 may remain in the capture tank 216 as described above, or may pass through it and be sent directly to the downstream capture line 237b. Controlling or monitoring the passage of the upstream filtrate to the downstream filter 227 may be accomplished using the siphon 102, as described above in connection with FIG. Similarly, for the upstream filtrate 235 from the capture tank 216 is passed to the lower stream side catching line 237b, may be used drain or valve. In at least one embodiment, the upstream effluent filtrate 235 for transporting to the downstream side filter 227, pump down stream side catching line 237a, it may be fluidly connected to 237b.

  The downstream filter 227 may include an antimicrobial separation unit 241 using at least two series of filters 227a, 227b, such as a column, barrel or drum filled with filter material 243. In one such embodiment, the downstream filter 227 has an antimicrobial carbon filtration system that includes at least two carbon filter units 227a, 227b configured to hold a filter material 243 that includes activated carbon. Filter material 243 may be configured to adsorb various components, such as antimicrobial components 245 or unwanted contaminants, from effluent 223. A waste line 247 may be connected to the downstream filter 227 for passing and discarding the resulting downstream effluent filtrate 249. In at least one embodiment, the capture unit 215 is configured to allow the downstream effluent filtrate 249 to be in a form suitable for discharge to surface water or municipal sewage treatment plants as wastewater effluent. 223 may be configured to be filtered.

  5 to 11 illustrate various configurations and features of the capture unit 215. As shown in FIG. 5, capture unit 215 is configured to receive effluent 223 that is sent to capture unit 215 for capture. Capture unit 215 is configured to treat effluent 223 through solids separation unit 229 and antimicrobial separation unit 241. The solids separation unit 229 may include an upstream filter 225, and the antimicrobial separation unit 241 may include a downstream filter 227. One or both of the upstream filter 225 and the downstream filter 227 may include a plurality of filters arranged in series or in parallel. Upstream filter 225 is configured to filter or separate solid components 231 from effluent 223 that may interfere with, for example, further transport or filtration of effluent 223 by downstream filter 227. The solid components 231 include organic or inorganic substances that enter the diluted antimicrobial solution during the application process.

  In various embodiments, the solid component 231 includes a large particle, a solid, a solid associated with a liquid, a viscous liquid, a fat, a gelatinous material, a crushed material, or a size-limited screen filter as shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. Other material is included that is filtered from the effluent via a passage through 225a. In particular, the solid components 231 separated from the effluent 223 by the upstream filter 225 also accumulate on the upstream filter 225, clogging the upstream filter 225 and limiting further transport of the effluent 223. Therefore, the upstream filter 225 separates the solid component 231, and the filtered solid component 231 is in the fluid passage of the effluent (where the screen filter 225 a is clogged and the further transport of the effluent 223 is restricted). May be configured to prevent accumulation in the For example, in various embodiments, the upstream filter 225 may be positioned at an angle to the flow direction of the effluent and may be configured to capture the solid component 231 filtered from the effluent 223. A series of traps may be included. The upstream filter 225 may be movable relative to the flow path so as to prevent the solid components 231 separated by the filter 225a from blocking the flow of the effluent 223 passing through the upstream filter 225. For example, the filter 225a may be configured such that the retained solid component 231 is moved or rotated with the movable portion out of the channel and another portion of the screen filter 225a is rotated into the channel to filter the effluent 223. May include a movable portion that slides or rotates relative to the fluid passage.

  Screen filter 225a may include a body portion 253, in which case the body portion includes a filter portion 255 disposed between ends 257 of the body portion. The body portion 253 may also include an annular wall 259 defining a cavity 261 extending along the axis of rotation R (the filter portion 255 is configured to rotate about, as indicated by arrow 273). Good. In various embodiments, the filter portion 255 may be constructed of strips of material that are patterned or intersected to form a plurality of holes or meshes 263. Body portion 253 may be constructed of a tube or drum that is perforated to define a hole in mesh 263 between inner surface 265 and outer surface 267 of annular wall 259. The screen filter 265 is preferably coated with, or formed of, a corrosion resistant material, such as a corrosion inhibitor, stainless steel, synthetic fiber, polymer, plastic, ceramic, or the like. The holes in the mesh 263 may be sized to prevent the passage of solid components having a minimum size or cross-section and allow the passage of the remaining effluent 223. In one preferred embodiment, the holes in the mesh 263 are sized to define a cross section of about 0.0625 inches, but the mesh 263 may be, for example, a solid component quantity, size or retention characteristics, effluent flow rate or quantity. May include smaller or larger holes, may have fewer holes, or may have additional holes, taking into account the rotational speed or area of the filter portion, etc. Good. In at least one embodiment, mesh 263 of filter portion 255 includes holes having different sized cross-sections.

  The upstream capture line 221 may include an outlet 269 adjacent the end 257 of the screen filter 225a at a location for delivering effluent 223 to the cavity 261. In at least one embodiment, the capture line 221 extends partially into the cavity 261 and the outlet is toward or toward the delivery area 271 extending along the inner surface 265 of the annular wall 259. There may be a downspout at a location where the effluent 223 is delivered to the area. The delivery region 271 may include a band 275 disposed along the periphery and defining the outer periphery of the cavity 261. The band may be formed of the same material as the filter portion 255 or may be formed of a different material. Band 275 may have an inner surface 277 that is solid or continuous with cavity 261. Inner surface 277 may be smooth to prevent accumulation of solid components 231 or to prevent the flow of effluent 223 from delivery area 271 to filter portion 255. For example, the inner surface 277 may have a polished metal surface. In at least one embodiment, the inner surface 277 of the band 275 may be structured to include grooves or protrusions. The grooves may be oriented to direct the fluid passage of the effluent 231 towards the filter portion or the broken-up solids component 231. In one embodiment, the inner surface 277 may be treated or coated with a non-stick material to prevent solid components 231 from accumulating. In some embodiments, the absence of a hole defined in the inner surface 277 of the band 275 allows the effluent 223 to be pumped into the cavity 261 and the inner surface 277 while the associated solid component 231 is filtered. It is also possible to avoid being sent to part 255 and staying there. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the screen filter 225a may include bands 275 disposed at both ends 257 of the main body 253. However, in at least one embodiment, screen filter 225a includes only one band 275.

  The screen filter embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 includes an inner surface 265 and a portion of the inner surface 265 that includes the inner surface 277 of the band portion 255 (disposed substantially parallel along a horizontal plane). Including. Upon delivery, the effluent 223 may be directed within the cavity in a direction that allows it to migrate to the filter portion 255 (eg, due to proximity to the filter portion 255 or sufficient momentum). In a further embodiment, a lip or ridge may be located at the end of the body 257 adjacent the delivery area so that the effluent 233 does not exit the cavity without migrating to the filter portion 255. Good. However, in at least one embodiment, the inner surface 277 of the band 275 is positioned at an elevated angle relative to the horizontal plane such that the effluent 233 is directed toward the inner surface 277 of the band 275 and the filter portion 255 of the screen filter 225a. May be. The elevation angle will position the inner surface 277 at a location opposing the direction of flow of the effluent 233 at discharge from the outlet 269 and will redirect the effluent 233 towards the filter portion 255 or The general direction of flow will be directed towards the filter portion 255. In this and other embodiments, the body 253 of the screen filter 225a may be positioned at an angle with respect to a horizontal plane such that the end 257 is higher than the opposite end 257. . The angle of the body 253 will further position the inner surface 265 extending along the filter portion 265 at an angle. Thus, the outlet 269 of the upstream capture line 221 will be positioned at the extreme end of the band 275 to discharge the effluent 223 to the inner surface 277. In this and other embodiments, the outlet 269 is positioned at an angle to direct the effluent vertically, parallel, or at another angle therebetween, into the cavity or the inner surface 277 of the band 275. Is also good.

As described above, the filter portion 255 of the screen filter 225a may be configured to rotate about a rotation axis R generally identified by arrow 273. In at least one embodiment, the body portion 253 of the screen filter 225a including the band 275 may also be configured to rotate with the filter portion 255. Rotation may be driven by a suitable mechanism configurable to rotate the filter portion 255 of the screen filter 225a, such as a gear, pulley, motor, or the like. As shown, the filter portion 255 may be driven by a rotating member 279 that operably engages with the engagement surface 283 of the screen filter 225a to rotate the filter portion 255 or body portion 253. It may include an engagement surface 281 such as a gear arranged to communicate to an additional portion.

  In at least one embodiment, as best shown by the cross section of screen filter 225a in FIG. 5, screen filter 225a includes a spiral 285 configured to pass effluent 223 through cavity 261. including. For example, the spiral 285 may be configured to push the liquid portion of the effluent 223 along the inner surface 265 of the annular wall 259 (such as the inner surface 277 of the band 275) toward the filter portion 255. The helix 285 may be configured to allow the solid component 231 to pass through the cavity 261 along the annular wall 259 and extrude in the direction of the solid trap 284. The solid trap 284 may be located, for example, at the end 257 of the body 253 where the solid components 231 are released and discarded. The spiral portion 285 may include a thread-shaped portion 287 extending from the annular wall 259 in the direction of the rotation axis R. The thread-shaped portion 287 wraps the annular wall 259 between both ends 257 of the main body portion 253 in the hollow portion 261 and forms a spiral therein. The threaded portion 287 is oriented in a direction to compensate for the rotation of the filter portion 255 that directs the separated solid component 231 to the end 257 of the cavity 261 (the solid component 231 passes through the end for disposal). It may be. For example, the thread-shaped portion 287 is guided by the rotation direction and the position of the delivery area 265 and pushes the solid component 231 toward the end 257 of the main body 253 or to push the solid component 231 away from the end. The side surface 265 is wrapped clockwise or counterclockwise with respect to the end 257 of the main body 253.

In various embodiments, the screen filter 225a may include, or be configured to implement, a cleaning unit 289, as best illustrated in FIG. In one form, the cleaning unit 289 facilitates cleaning one or more portions of the screen filter 225a, for example, removing solid components 231 from the annular wall 259 or the filter portion 255, and passing the solid components 231 through the cavity 216. May be used to provide additional lubrication, prevent solid components 231 from accumulating on the annular wall 259 or filter portion 255, and the like . The cleaning unit 289 may be arranged in the cavity 261 or may be arranged outside the cavity. In various embodiments, the cleaning unit 289 may utilize various mechanisms to scrape the screen filter 225a. For example, the cleaning unit 289 includes one or more extensions configured to contact the inner or outer surfaces 265, 267 of the annular wall 259 or body portion 253, such as bristles, rigid flaps, elastomeric flaps, and the like. May be. In the illustrated embodiment, the cleaning unit 289 includes a solid component 231 that moves along the bottom of the cavity 261 to clean the screen filter 225 a, for example, by removing solid components from the filter portion 255 and by the action of the spiral 285. A spray bar 293 having one or more fluid ports 295 configured to direct fluid to the annular wall 229 to facilitate movement of the fluid. In at least one embodiment, the spray bar 293 is positioned within the cavity 261 to direct fluid to the inner surface 265 of the annular wall 259, for example, along the filter portion 255 or band 275. In some embodiments, a plurality of spray bars 293 or fluid ports 295 may be located around body 253 or may be located within cavity 261 and along outer surface 267. Fluid port 295 may include a nozzle 297 configured to directionally enhance or adjust the degree of dispersion of the cleaning fluid. In some embodiments, fluid port 295 may be in a rest position. Adjustment of the amount or pressure of the cleaning fluid directed from the fluid port 295 may be performed using a pump, restrictor, obstruction element, valve, or the like. For example, in one embodiment, the orifice plate may be located on the spray bar 293. The orifice plate may be arranged, for example, to regulate the flow of a single fluid port or multiple fluid ports 295. In at least one embodiment, the fluid port 295 may be movable, for example, in a predetermined or programmed pattern, or alternatively, through the central control unit 32, 164, which may include a fluid cleaning action. Also included is a sensor configured to sense where the data is needed and send such data to the central control units 32, 164 for automatic orientation. In this or other embodiments, the fluid port 295 may be manually directed by a remote control provided by a user remote control system incorporated into the central control unit 32,164.

  In one embodiment, the upstream filter 225 is configured as a modular unit or pallet for augmentation of a capture unit (capture units 15, 115, etc.) of a new or existing application system 10, thereby being desirable from effluent. The solid component 231 having the size may be separated by filtration. Accordingly, the upstream filter 225 may include various fittings or attachment points configured to couple to a new or existing application system 10.

  The capture unit 215 may further include a capture tank 216. The capture tank 216 may be located along a downstream capture line 237 between the upstream and downstream filters 225, 227 and may include a tank 218 for holding the effluent 223. Capture tank 216 may include an inlet 220 for receiving upstream effluent filtrate 235 from upstream filter 225. As generally shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, upstream filter 225 is directed to inlet 220 of capture tank 216, which is arranged to receive upstream effluent filtrate 235 directly from upstream filter 225. I have. For example, inlet 220 or tank 218 is located proximate downstream of filter portion 255. In some embodiments, an additional capture tank 216 may be included. For example, screen filter 225a is arranged to capture upstream effluent filtrate 235 that has passed through filter portion 255 (and then to downstream capture line 237, which may also include additional capture tank 216). May include a capture tank 216. In at least one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the capture tank 216 is disposed between a first portion of the downstream capture line 237a and a second portion of the downstream capture line 237b. .

Capture tank 216 may also include an outlet 222 for effluent 223 to reach downstream filter 227. The outlet 222 may be connected to a downstream capture line 237 and is configured to open the outlet and allow effluent 223 to pass from the capture tank 216 through the downstream capture line 237 to the downstream filter 227. Drain or valve included. For example, the valve may be configured to operate manually or automatically based on time, volume of upstream effluent filtrate 235 in tank 218, volume of downstream filter 227, etc. It may be constituted as follows. The automatic actuation may occur in response to a signal provided by the central control unit 32, 164, or the valve may be actuated to operate based on system conditions (eg, upstream or downstream pressure). It may be configured in a typical manner.

  Movement of the effluent 223 from the outlet 223 to the downstream filter 227 may be accelerated, for example, by gravity or a pump located at or operatively coupled to the downstream capture line 237. In various embodiments, capture tank 216 may include a siphon as described in connection with FIG. For example, the siphon may be in fluid communication with the downstream capture line 237. The siphon may be configured such that the upstream effluent filtrate 235 remains in the capture tank 216 until a desired level is reached, after which a predetermined amount of the upstream effluent filtrate is moved or discharged from the capture tank 216, The effluent 223 is moved through the downstream capture line 237 to the downstream filter 227. A siphon or other mechanism configured to avoid continuous passage or dripping of effluent 223, such as a valve configured to operate at various time intervals, or a central control unit 32, 164 By incorporating a valve configured to operate by receiving an activation signal, or a sensor configured to monitor the level of effluent in the capture tank 216, the capture unit 215 can be configured to provide a downstream filter 227 with In this regard, the occurrence of channeling problems may be reduced or eliminated. However, in at least one embodiment, capture unit 215 does not incorporate a siphon or other mechanism configured to avoid continuous passage of effluent 223. In one such embodiment, the capture unit 215 does not include a capture tank 216, but rather a downstream capture line 237, for continuous processing of the effluent 223 sent to the capture unit 215, the upstream effluent filtrate 235. Is collected from the screen filter 225a and the upstream effluent filtrate 235 is directly sent to the downstream filter 227. Accordingly, the capture unit 215 may be configured to perform continuous capture and disposal of the effluent 223.

The downstream filter 227 may include an antimicrobial separation unit 241 as described above and as generally shown in FIGS. Antimicrobial separation unit 241 includes one or more filter units 227a, 227b, such as disposable carbon filter 108, for selectively removing antimicrobial components 228 from effluent 223, as described above in connection with FIG. In that case, the antibacterial agent is preferably a quaternary ammonia compound, an alkylpyridinium chloride or a cetylpyridinium chloride. An intermediate filter line 239 is connected between the filter units 227a, 227b to transfer the intermediate downstream effluent filtrate 249 from the filter unit 227a to the filter unit 227b. As described above, the filter units 227a, 227b may utilize one or more properties of the effluent 223 or its components to properly separate the antimicrobial component 245 from the effluent using appropriate filtering strategies and designs. May be configured. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter units 227a, 227b of the separation unit 241 of the downstream filter 227 include at least two filter units arranged in series. Each of the filter units 227a and 227b includes a container 242 for accommodating a filter material such as activated carbon. The upstream effluent filtrate 235 passes through the activated carbon to form, for example, a filter material 243. The antimicrobial component 245 is separated through the reaction or adsorption thereto. Although two filter units 227a, 227b are shown, additional filters may be used. For example, in one embodiment, the downstream filter 227 includes a separation unit 241 having two to four filter units 227a, 227b aligned in series, wherein each filter unit 227a, 227b includes activated carbon or the like. And a container for holding the filter material 243 of FIG.

  Downstream filter 227 may include an outlet configured to couple to waste line 247 to allow downstream effluent filtrate 249 to exit separation unit 241. In various embodiments, the separation unit 241 is configured to separate an appropriate amount of the antimicrobial component 245 from the upstream effluent filtrate 235, such that the resulting downstream effluent filtrate 249 has a suitably low level. Of the downstream effluent filtrate 249 is therefore suitable for disposal as industrial wastewater effluent according to current effluent guidelines.

With further reference to FIG. 7, in various embodiments, the antimicrobial separation units 106, 160, 241 may include a header 250. The header section 250 is preferably configured to uniformly supply an effluent 223 such as an upstream or intermediate downstream effluent filtrate 235, 249 in relation to the filter material 243, but in at least one embodiment. The header 250 may then be configured to selectively supply the effluent 223 to one or more regions of the filter material 243 in the container 242. The header 250 includes a body 252 defining an internal fluid path 254 extending between the upstream inlet 256 and the plurality of downstream fluid ports 258. Body portion 252 may include one or more arms 260 in which a fluid port 258 is formed to provide effluent 223. The arm 260 may have the fluid ports 258 arranged in various patterns. In the illustrated embodiment, the header section 250 includes four arms 260 , which may be constructed, for example, of a pipe and arranged in a cross or X-shape. However, in other embodiments, the header portion 250 may include other shapes with fewer or additional arms, which may further include a second arm.

  Fluid ports 258 are arranged along two sides of each arm 260. However, in some embodiments, the fluid ports 258 may be arranged on one side, circumferentially, or along more than two sides of the arm 260. Alternatively or otherwise, the effluent filtrates 235, 249 may be provided with an effluent 223 and arranged in a manner suitable to reduce channeling problems. For example, as described above, a uniform supply may be desirable to prevent channeling problems and increase surface contact between the effluent 223 and the filter material 243. The number and size of the fluid ports 258 may vary to optimize delivery, for example, taking into account the characteristics of the fluid, filter media 243 or flow conditions. Accordingly, fluid port 258 may be dimensioned to restrict, direct, spray, or concentrate fluid exiting fluid path 254. As shown, each arm includes 26 fluid ports 258. In at least one embodiment, each of the two or more arms 260 includes 20 fluid ports. As shown, header section 250 also includes a fluid port 258 having a cross-section between 0.125 inches and 0.250 inches. However, as noted above, additional dimensions and features may be used depending on the environment in which system 10 operates. For example, in one embodiment, the header 250 is configured to be movable to increase the distribution of the effluent 223. For example, the header 250 may be adjusted to rotate or selectively move according to a predetermined pattern. The moving speed or mobility may be related, for example, to the amount of effluent 223 passing through the header.

FIG. 8 is a header 250 located in the filter unit 227a shown in FIGS. 4 to 6 according to various embodiments. Header section 250 may be used in a carbon filtration system that includes at least two filter units 227a, 227b, 108, as described above. However, it is understood that the filter units 227a, 227b, 108 do not necessarily include the header 250 or the header 250 shown. In fact, in at least one embodiment, the filter units 227a, 227b, 108 include different header portions. Similarly, the filter units 227a, 227b, and 108 may be configured to hold the same filter material 243 or may be configured to hold different filter materials 243. In one embodiment, one or both of the filter units 227a, 227b shown in FIG. As described above, the filter units 227a, 227b, 108 may include a container 242 configured to hold the filter material 243. The container may include an interior surface 272 or liner 274 configured to be positioned adjacent to the filter material 243. The header 250 receives the upstream effluent filtrate 235 from the downstream capture line 237 or, optionally, the intermediate downstream effluent filtrate 249 from the intermediate filter line 239 and supplies fluid to the filter material 243. It may be suitably located in the upstream part. In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet 256 of the header 250 is connected to the downstream capture line 237 to receive the upstream effluent filtrate 235 in the fluid path 254. The header 250 is disposed on the filter material 243 and is configured to supply the upstream effluent filtrate 249 onto the filter material 243 disposed in the container 242. In operation, header portion 250 may be attached to container 242 (including, for example, a filter drum) or may be located therein. Feeding with header 250 reduces or prevents channeling problems that occur through container 242. For example, the header portion 250 supplies or scatters the received effluent 223 or effluent filtrate 235, 249 on the upper surface of the filter material 243 to increase the supply amount, so that little or no channeling problem occurs through the filter material 243.

  In various embodiments, the antimicrobial separation units 106, 160, 241 may include a filter unit 227a, 227b, 108, in which the container 242 includes a filter material 243 having activated carbon. Includes structured plastic drums or plastic-lined drums. As described above, the filter units 227a, 227b, 108 are disposable. That is, the activated carbon may be appropriately disposed of when used. Conventional filter units 227a, 227b, 108 and vessel 242 are typically made of metal that is susceptible to corrosion in the capture units 15, 115, 215 during operation, in contrast to plastic drums, which It can be configured to avoid such corrosion, which can occur.

  9-11 show an embodiment of a container 242 suitable for use in the filter units 227a, 227b, 108 for further integrity of the system 10 or the antimicrobial carbon filtration system. As noted above, it has been found that conventional metal containers, commonly referred to as drums, used in the filter units 227a, 227b tend to lose their integrity prematurely during operation. Such loss of integrity is believed to be the result of corrosion occurring in the corrosive environment of the antimicrobial separation unit 241. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9-11, the container 242 includes an inner surface 272 or liner 274 comprised of a non-corrosive material.

  FIG. 9 shows a container 242 having an outer surface 270 and an inner surface 272. Outer surface 270 may include a conventional metallic material. However, in other embodiments, the outer surface 272 may include a hard plastic, ceramic, hard material, or other suitable material. Inner surface 272 may include a coating formed along with the material of container shell or outer surface 270. The coating may include plastics, polymers, resins, enamels, ceramics, epoxy resins, rust inhibitors or combinations or mixtures thereof.

  FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of the container 242, wherein the inner surface 272 is formed as a liner 274. Liner 274 may be configured to be selectively inserted into outer surface 270 or to be selectively removed from within the outer surface. In one embodiment, liner 274 and inner surface 272 may be further formed of a resilient elastomeric material that can be compressively retained within outer surface 270. Other methods of retaining inner surface 272 within outer surface 270 include, for example, fitting adhesive, flanges, brackets, or fittings using latches, threads, clamps, bolts, hooks and grooves, or screws.

  FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of the container 242, wherein both the inner and outer surfaces 270, 272 may be formed of the materials described above with respect to FIGS. For example, container 242 may include a plastic drum configured to hold filter material 243, such as activated carbon.

For the inner surfaces in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 9-11, it is preferred to select a material that is resistant to corrosion that compromises integrity in the operating environment during operation. For example, inner surface of the material, the effluent 223, or when the effluent 223 is mixed with the filter material comprising activated carbon, or in an environment that occurs upon reaction with it, should have a resistance to corrosion It is.

  In the foregoing description, other modifications, changes and substitutions are intended, and in some cases, some features are utilized without the corresponding use of other features. For example, different features of alternative embodiments may be fused or combined in various combinations. Further, the antimicrobial application unit 12 may have any shape, shape and size, and need not be one of the embodiments of the spray cabinet disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,742,720. Similarly, various different compositions may be used at various different concentrations, and the compositions may or may not include one or more antimicrobial agents. Further, system 10 may incorporate additional pumps, filters, and similar components. Further, a variety of different methods may be used to monitor the composition of the composition in the recycle tank 24. Similarly, the composition may be monitored constantly or at desired intervals. Further, the pan 22 may not be used and may be of various different lengths. Of course, quantitative information is included for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention should be construed broadly in a manner consistent with the scope of the invention disclosed.

This specification has been described with reference to various non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that various alternatives, modifications, or any combination of the disclosed embodiments (or portions thereof) are possible within the scope of the present description. Accordingly, it is intended and understood that the specification supports additional embodiments not explicitly described herein. Such embodiments may be modified, for example, by combining the steps, components, elements, features, aspects, characteristics, limitations, etc. of the various non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments disclosed herein. Or by reorganization. Accordingly, the applicant hereby reserves the right to amend the claims to add various features described herein during the course of the procedure, and such amendments are subject to 35 U.S.C. S. C. §§ 112 (a) and 132 (a).

Claims (9)

A capture unit for use with an antimicrobial application unit,
An upstream filter connected to an upstream capture line, wherein the upstream capture line is for transferring effluent from the antimicrobial application unit to the upstream filter;
A downstream filter connected to a downstream capture line, wherein the downstream capture line is for transferring a filtrate of an upstream effluent from the upstream filter to the downstream filter. Has,
The upstream filter is configured to filter solid components of the effluent, and the downstream filter includes a filter material and configured to filter antimicrobial components from a filtrate of the upstream effluent . Things,
The upstream filter includes a screen filter having a rotatable body, the body having an annular wall having an inner surface, the inner surface receiving the effluent from the upstream capture line. Which defines
The annular wall of the main body,
A filter portion formed with a plurality of holes extending through the annular wall along the inner surface of the annular wall, receiving the effluent from the upstream capture line and removing solid components of the effluent; The filter portion, which is to be filtered;
A band portion having a continuous surface extending around the cavity along the inner surface of the annular wall, the band portion receiving the effluent from the upstream capture line along the filter portion; And said band portion for receiving said effluent on said continuous surface in advance.
The upstream capture line is configured to direct a flow of the effluent onto the continuous surface of the band portion at an angle between an angle parallel to and perpendicular to an inner surface of the annular wall. all SANYO having an outlet,
The downstream filter has at least two filter units connected by an intermediate filter line, each filter unit having a container holding a filter material containing activated carbon, wherein each of the filter units is continuous. Arranged to filter the antimicrobial component from the filtrate of the upstream effluent, wherein the antimicrobial component has a quaternary ammonia compound,
At least one of the filter units has a main body having an upstream inlet and a header having a plurality of downstream fluid ports arranged along a plurality of arms,
The main body of the header portion is at least four arms arranged in an X shape, or at least two arms, wherein a plurality of downstream fluid ports are provided on at least two sides of each arm. Including two arms,
Capture unit.   The capture unit of claim 1, wherein the screen filter further comprises a thread extending from an inner surface of the annular wall into the cavity, wherein the thread comprises a thread. A capture unit that extends helically along a side surface between a first end and a second end of the body.   3. The capture unit of claim 2, wherein the thread-shaped portion extends along the filter portion and the continuous surface.   3. The capture unit of claim 2, wherein the screen filter further comprises a cleaning device configured to remove filtered solid components from the annular wall.   5. The capture unit according to claim 4, wherein the cleaning device comprises a spray bar including one or more fluid ports arranged to direct fluid against an outer surface of the annular wall. unit.   The capture unit according to claim 5, wherein the fluid port is disposed outside the cavity. The capture unit according to claim 1 , wherein the body of the header has at least two arms each defining at least 20 fluid ports. 8. The capture unit of claim 7 , wherein the fluid port defines a cross section between 0.125 inches and 0.250 inches. The capture unit according to claim 7 , wherein at least one of the containers has a plastic inner surface.

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